Question: I’ve been wondering about college for awhile, and I’ve got a problem. I go to a charter school, In case no one knows what that is, it’s an alternative school. I’m not a stupid or “at risk” teen….. I just like the way that it is structured. The only problem is that when I mention “college” or “scollarships”, anything to do with higher education….. they just shrug and say “well, you’re on your own after you get out of here”. Now I’m not rich, and I don’t want to spend twenty years paying a student loan. The only alternative that I see is joining the service to get money. I would rather avoid this though. My school uses a “portfolio” system instead of letter grades, so I cannot show my “4.0″ grade average. Anyone have any ideas on how I can get out of this rut? Thanks!

Answer: I really disagree with you here, Mr. Wright. The school you directly attend will almost ALWAYS award money soley based on academic performance with slight consideration into extracurriculars unless it is a service award–which few colleges offer. Treating the “serach for financial aid,” as a separate issue is completely neccessary to receive the money you could possibly get. There are over 5000 national scholarships available per year to the public — this doesn’t even include the scholarships that are only available to company employees, etc. I would honestly purchase a book about scholarships and start sending out app. letters. They sell these books at any bookstore—the money is well spent. National scholarships will usually offer $1000 and up scholarships, while locals are USUALLY under $100. Look at your options before you just give up on the whole idea..there is a LOT out there and someone’s gonna get it–might as well be you.

And your lack of grades should not affect your prospects. If they don’t > send out such information, you should strongly urge them to start doing > so, but in the meantime be sure to include a note to the schools to > which you apply explaining your school’s system.

Also, remember that no matter what school you goto–public or private, there WILL be an academic index of your school. Unless you are homeschooled, ANY school in the country can get a detailed profile of your school. So, your portfolio may very well prove to be sufficient when the school compares you to other people in the same “profile.”

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